A Kirchhoff-mode method for \(C^ 0\) bilinear and Serendipity plate elements (Q801730)

A new formulation for the \(C^ 0\) quadrilateral and Serendipity plate elements is presented. It is an extension of the mode-decomposition approach that has been successfully applied in evaluating of the \(C^ 0\) triangular linear plate element. In contrast to the triangular element, the concept of an equivalent discrete Kirchhoff configuration is utilized. The elements are applied to several examples and the performance of these elements is shown to be quite good.